The telephone numbers that provide direct access to Sanjukta Parasor on display outside the Jorhat SP office. Picture by UB Photos

Jorhat, May 15: Jorhat superintendent of police Sanjukta Parasor has used a social networking site to make Jorhat police a corruption-free force by appealing to people not to pay any police personnel and approach her instead if a policeman demands money.

She has also given phone numbers of her office and residence and even her mobile number in her endeavour to root out corruption.

“I am tired of telling people that they should not pay the police to get things done — some people choose to pay and only a few come to me when things really turn bad,” the message on her Facebook page said.

The only lady officer in Upper Assam to hold a top post in the police department, Parasor is known for her zero tolerance towards corruption. She has directed all the police stations in the district to put up signboards having her phone numbers so that it becomes easy for the people to approach her.

She said no one in the department would be allowed to indulge in corruption and she would need help from the people to ensure that.

“I am there 24/7 to take calls and I hope the people of Jorhat will help me in making the Jorhat police a corruption-free force,” she said.

The IPS officer said there are provisions under Section 154 of the IPC for a person to approach the top police officer of the district in case any lower-level officer demands money. “But only a few people know about this and many prefer to get their jobs done by paying the police. I want to ensure a people-friendly police force, which is totally corruption-free,” she said.

The officer had carried out a major reshuffle in the force after she was assigned the post about two years’ back. A few officers indulging in corruption have also been placed under suspension and a few were given “punishment postings” to remote areas in the last two years.

On her Facebook page, Parasor has written that if any officer in any police stations or outposts in the district asks for money, she should be informed immediately. She has assured strict action against such police personnel, besides mentioning that she would ensure that the work is done.

“Let’s say no to corruption,” were the words written in bold.

The Facebook page also has phone numbers for direct access: 0376-2320027 and 0376-2320021 and mobile: 9435557322.

“If I am not there to take a call, leave your name and number and I will get back within 24 hours,” the message said.

Akhil Pincha, a resident, said Parasor is a really helpful officer and responds to even unknown callers immediately. “My wife was in labour pain during the Durga Puja celebrations when all the roads were blocked with ‘no entry’ signs everywhere. I called the SP and she provided a police escort for the vehicle in which I was taking my wife to the hospital. I became a father an hour after my wife reached hospital. I am really grateful to her,” he said.